Black Margin Wax Plant

Black Margin Wax Plant (Hoya parasitica 'Black Margin')

Black Margin Wax Plant is a striking hoya with thick, glossy green leaves edged in a dramatic dark margin and clusters of fragrant, starry blooms; its tidy vining habit thrives indoors with bright, indirect light and a chunky, fast-draining mix.

Distinctive Features

Bold, dark-edged foliage provides graphic contrast year-round, while waxy umbels of scented flowers appear on mature plants and persist on recurrent peduncles for repeat bloom.

Growing Conditions

Provide strong, filtered light, an airy potting mix, and moderate watering that allows partial dry-down; warmth and moderate humidity support steady growth and flowering.

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light; brief gentle morning sun is beneficial, avoid harsh afternoon rays.
• Soil: Well-drained, airy mix with bark, perlite, and a small amount of peat or coco; avoid dense, water-holding soils.
• Water: Water thoroughly, then allow the top 1 to 2 in to dry; reduce in winter.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 11 outdoors; grow as a houseplant elsewhere.
• Mature Size: Vines typically 3 to 8 ft indoors with support; longer in ideal conditions.
• Bloom Time: Spring to fall on established plants with good light.
• Humidity: Moderate to high, about 40 to 60 percent.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, about 6.0 to 7.0.

Ideal Uses

Train on a hoop or trellis for a sculptural specimen, or let stems trail from shelves and hanging planters to highlight the dark leaf margins.

• Focal Point: Graphic, dark-edged leaves create a modern, high-contrast accent.
• Hanging Displays: Cascading vines showcase foliage and flower umbels.
• Trellised Specimen: Compact spirals on hoops or ladders suit small spaces.
• Collector Groupings: Pairs well with other variegated or textured hoyas.
• Low-Light Transitions: Tolerates bright shade better than many tropical vines.

Low Maintenance Care

Keep roots slightly snug, feed lightly in the warm season, and protect the flowering spurs to encourage reliable rebloom.

• Watering: Deep soak and drain; err slightly dry rather than wet to prevent root rot.
• Pruning: Trim for shape but do not remove peduncles, which produce repeat umbels.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced or bloom-boosting fertilizer at half strength monthly in spring and summer.
• Mulching: Not needed in pots; a thin decorative bark layer can slow evaporation.
• Notes: Provide a support for climbing, increase airflow to deter mealybugs, and repot only when rootbound.

Why Choose Black Margin Wax Plant?

This cultivar combines dramatic foliage with manageable care, rewarding patience with scented blooms and year-round visual impact.

• Striking Contrast: Dark leaf margins read clearly in any decor.
• Fragrant Umbels: Waxy, star-shaped flowers on mature plants.
• Waterwise: Succulent leaves tolerate brief dry-downs.
• Space Efficient: Trains vertically or trails neatly.
• Collector Appeal: Distinct look within the Hoya group.

Place in bright, indirect light with a chunky mix, allow partial dry-down between waterings, and never cut the peduncles to enjoy repeat bloom and bold, dark-edged foliage.